Behavioral Health Medical Necessity Criteria

Behavioral Health Medical Necessity Criteria Revised: 7/14/05 2 nd Revision: 9/14/06 3 rd Revision: 8/23/07 4 th Revision: 8/28/08; 11/20/08 5 th Revision: 8/27/09 Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield 2 Gannett Dr. South Portland, ME 04106

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION...I ADULT SUBSTANCE ABUSE... 5 INPATIENT ACUTE DETOXIFICATION... 5 INPATIENT ACUTE REHABILITATION... 6 SUBACUTE/RTC DETOXIFICATION... 7 SUBACUTE/RTC REHABILITATION... 8 PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION REHABILITATION PROGRAM (PHP)... 9 INTENSIVE STRUCTURED OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION PROGRAM (IOP)... 10 OUTPATIENT TREATMENT... 11 ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE... 12 INPATIENT ACUTE DETOXIFICATION... 12 INPATIENT ACUTE REHABILITATION... 13 SUBACUTE/RTC DETOXIFICATION... 14 SUBACUTE/RTC REHABILITATION... 15 PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION REHABILITATION PROGRAM (PHP)... 16 INTENSIVE STRUCTURED OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION PROGRAM (IOP)... 17 OUTPATIENT TREATMENT... 18 SUBSTANCE ABUSE OUTPATIENT DETOXIFICATION (OFFICE BASED)... 19 SUBSTANCE ABUSE OUTPATIENT DETOXIFICATION... 21 ADULT SUBSTANCE ABUSE OUTPATIENT (OFFICE BASED) MEDICATION ASSISTED TREATMENT (MAT) OF OPIOID DEPENDENCE..23 ADULT PSYCHIATRIC... 25 ACUTE INPATIENT... 25 RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTER (RTC)... 26 PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION PROGRAM (PHP)... 27 INTENSIVE STRUCTURED OUTPATIENT PROGRAM (IOP)... 28 INPATIENT/OUTPATIENT ECT... 29 CHILD/ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIC... 30 ACUTE INPATIENT... 30 SUBACTE RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTER... 31 PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION PROGRAM (PHP)... 32 INTENSIVE STRUCTURED OUTPATIENT PROGRAM (IOP)... 33 ADULT/ADOLESCENT/CHILD EATING DISORDER... 34 ACUTE INPATIENT... 34 RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTER (RTC)... 36 RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTER W/OUT 24 HOUR NURSING (RTC)... 38 PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION PROGRAM (PHP)... 40 INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAM (IOP)... 41 OUTPATIENT TREATMENT... 42 PSYCHIATRIC OUTPATIENT TREATMENT... 433 MEDICATION MANAGEMENT... 45 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING... 46 EAP OUTPATIENT TREATMENT CRITERIA... 47 REFERENCES... 48

Introduction This document lists our criteria for the treatment of psychiatric and substance-related disorders. These criteria are reviewed and updated annually based on participation from behavioral healthcare providers as well as information published in the clinical literature. Behavioral Health administers mental health and substance abuse care benefits with the belief that patients should receive timely and appropriate care in a cost-effective manner and setting. Benefit coverage decisions are made with this principle in mind while we consider both our medical necessity criteria and the information available regarding each individual case. These criteria define medical necessity for care as covered under our contracts. Please call Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (hereafter referred to as the Plan ) at (800) 832-6011 if you require additional information. NOTE: The availability of the above described services is dependent upon the medical benefits as described in the Evidence of Coverage of the Plan. For details, providers should consult the Provider Manual and patients should consult their Plan materials. Medical Necessity Medical necessity criteria has been developed by an internal committee of case managers and psychiatric advisors, then reviewed and approved by a panel of outside practicing clinicians. These criteria are reviewed on an annual basis and are based on current psychiatric literature including the criteria of the American Psychiatric Association, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and the American Society for Addiction Medicine. Medically necessary health care means health care services or products provided to a covered person for the purpose of preventing, diagnosing or treating an illness, injury or disease or the symptoms of an illness, injury or disease in a manner that is: a. Consistent with generally accepted standards of medical practice; b. Clinically appropriate in terms of type, frequency, extent, site and duration; c. Demonstrated through scientific evidence to be effective in improving health outcomes; d. Representative of best practices in the medical profession; and e. Not primarily for the convenience of the covered person or physician or other health care practitioner. Medical necessity criteria are guidelines used by utilization review and care management staff (licensed registered nurse or licensed independent behavioral health practitioners). When clinical information given meets these criteria, the cases may be certified by the utilization review or care manager. When cases do not meet these criteria, cases must be sent to a psychiatrist reviewer/peer clinical reviewer for an assessment of the case. For experimental and investigational procedures and services, refer to the Plan policy and Evidence of Coverage on such procedures and services. i

The attached medical necessity criteria for each level of care include three categories, Severity of Illness, Intensity of Service and Continued Stay. Severity of Illness criteria include descriptions of the patient s condition and circumstances. Intensity of Service criteria describe the services being provided, which must be met for admission and continued stay. Continued Stay criteria must be met for authorization of the requested service to continue, and Severity of Illness criteria must also be met for continued authorization. A provider who is requesting services must be afforded the opportunity for a peer-to-peer conversation regarding an adverse decision. The psychiatrist reviewer/peer clinical reviewer should use these guidelines to help frame their decision for consistency, but must also use their clinical experience and judgment to make exceptions to the criteria when indicated. The mental health services should not be primarily for the avoidance of incarceration of the patient or to satisfy a programmatic length of stay. There should be a reasonable expectation that the patient s illness, condition, or level of functioning will be stabilized, improved, or maintained through treatment known to be effective for the patient s illness. Custodial care is not typically a Covered Service. It should be emphasized that these criteria are not meant to be exhaustive and will not cover all clinical situations. It is for this reason that final authorization decisions are made by a psychiatrist reviewer/peer clinical reviewer after discussion with the treating clinician. The reviewing psychiatrist must always also take into account any specific needs of the individual patient (such as age, co-morbidities, complications, psychosocial situation and progress) or characteristics of the local delivery system (such as the availability of alternative levels of care) when applying the medical necessity criteria. It is noted that there is variation in the availability of services in different geographic and regional areas. If an indicated service is not available within a patient s community at the level of service indicated by the criteria, authorization may be given for those services at the next highest available level. In some geographical areas, state regulations allow non-physicians to treat patients at inpatient facilities. In these Medical Necessity Criteria, such non-physicians with prescriptive authority who are operating within the scope of their license may be substituted where the criteria specify a physician. Outpatient treatment is to be provided by independently licensed behavioral health providers. When individual psychotherapy, family therapy and group therapy are provided as part of a facility's inpatient, sub-acute, or intensive outpatient program, appropriate supervision of individuals who are not licensed to practice independently must be provided unless specifically permitted by state law. Confidentiality We believe that keeping a person s medical information confidential is of the utmost importance. We take a number of measures to insure that information is treated confidentially and privacy is respected. We request sufficient information to allow a ii

reviewer to make an independent judgment regarding diagnosis and treatment, to clarify services and substantiate coverage. This information is both legally and ethically confidential. Confidentiality of patient information is protected by federal and state law and by our corporate policy. Diagnosis Appropriate diagnoses are required for utilization management. Treatment approved for reimbursement by the Plan must have an appropriate diagnosis that is covered under the patient s contract. Mental disorders are defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4 th Edition (DSM-IV)* and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition Text Revision (DSMIV-TR)**. * Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. Washington, DC, American Psychiatric Association, 1994. ** Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition Text Revision. Washington, DC, American Psychiatric Association, 2000. Level of Care Descriptions Acute Inpatient Hospitalization Acute inpatient psychiatric hospitalization is defined as treatment in a hospital psychiatric unit that includes 24-hour nursing and daily active treatment under the direction of a psychiatrist and certified by JCAHO as a hospital. Acute psychiatric treatment is appropriate in an inpatient setting when required to stabilize patients who are in acute distress and return them to a level of functioning in which a lesser level of intense treatment can be provided. A need for acute inpatient care occurs when the patient requires 24-hour nursing care, close observation, assessment, treatment and a structured therapeutic environment that is available only in an acute inpatient setting. Residential Treatment Residential treatment is defined as specialized treatment that occurs in a residential treatment center or intermediate care facility. Residential treatment is an intermediate-term approach to treatment that attempts to return the patient to the community. Licensure may differ somewhat by state, but these facilities are typically designated residential, subacute, or intermediate care facilities. Residential treatment is 24 hours per day and requires a minimum of one physician visit per week in a facility setting. Wilderness programs are not considered residential treatment programs. Partial Hospitalization Partial hospitalization (sometimes called day treatment) is a structured, short-term treatment modality that offers nursing care and active treatment in a program that is operable at a minimum of six (6) hours per day, five (5) days per week. Patients must attend a minimum of 6 hours per day when participating in a partial program. Patients are not cared for on a 24-hour per day basis, and typically leave the program each evening and/or weekends. Partial hospitalization treatment is provided by a multidisciplinary treatment team, which includes a psychiatrist. Partial hospitalization is an alternative to acute inpatient hospital care and offers intensive, coordinated, iii

multidisciplinary clinical services for patients that are able to function in the community at a minimally appropriate level and do not present an imminent potential for harm to themselves or others. Intensive Outpatient Treatment Intensive outpatient is a structured, short-term treatment modality that provides a combination of individual, group and family therapy. Intensive outpatient programs meet at least three times per week, providing a minimum of three (3) hours of treatment per session. Intensive outpatient programs must be supervised by a licensed mental health professional. Intensive outpatient treatment is an alternative to inpatient or partial hospital care and offers intensive, coordinated, multidisciplinary services for patients with an active psychiatric or substance related illness that are able to function in the community at a minimally appropriate level and present no imminent potential for harm to themselves or others. Outpatient Treatment Outpatient treatment is a level of care in which a licensed mental health professional provides care to individuals in an outpatient setting, whether to the patient individually, in family therapy, or in a group modality. Traditional outpatient treatment ranges in time from medication management (e.g. 15 20 minutes) to 30 50 minutes or more for the psychotherapies. iv

ADULT SUBSTANCE ABUSE INPATIENT ACUTE DETOXIFICATION Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Dependence diagnosis. Must have one of the following: 1. Nature and pattern of use of abused substance (including frequency and duration) predicts the potential for clinically significant withdrawal necessitating 24-hour medical intervention to prevent complications and that is not appropriate for a lower level of care- e.g. alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal (note: withdrawal from stimulants or marijuana alone generally does not require a medical detoxification and opiate detoxification is often appropriate for a lower level of care). 2. Presence of active withdrawal symptoms that can not be safely or effectively managed at a lower level of care-e.g. tremors, unstable vital signs, diaphoresis, GI disturbances, agitation, withdrawal hallucinations, confusion or disorientation or seizures. Note: Patients who experience severe psychological withdrawal symptoms may require 24-hour care, even though they do not meet the detoxification criteria. Please refer to rehabilitation and psychiatric criteria. Must have all of the following to qualify and must still meet one SI Criteria: 1. Documentation of blood and/or urine drug screen was ordered upon admission. 2. Multi-disciplinary problem-focused treatment plan which addresses psychological, social, medical, substance abuse, and aftercare needs, which is amended in a timely and appropriate manner as indicated. 3. Physician visits at least daily, seven (7) days a week. 4. 24-hour skilled nursing (by either an RN or LVN/LPN). 5. Medication management of withdrawal symptoms tailored to the patient s individual need. 6. Discharge planning is initiated on the day of admission and includes appropriate continuing care plans with the preferred outpatient visit within one week of discharge. 7. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress in treatment is being documented and the patient is not stable enough to be treated at a lower level of care. 5

ADULT SUBSTANCE ABUSE INPATIENT ACUTE REHABILITATION Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Abuse and/or Dependence diagnosis. 1. Patient no longer meets detoxification SI criteria. 2. Patient demonstrates behavior or medical symptomatology such that a lower level of care is likely to fail or has recently failed. This may be because the patient has a severe co-morbid medical or psychiatric disorder, which requires 24-hour acute hospital care. 3. There is evidence of major life impairments in at least two (2) areas of functioning (work/school, family, ADL s, interpersonal). 4. The patient has expressed an interest or desire to work towards the goals of treatment and recovery, at the time of admission or shortly thereafter. 1. 24-hour skilled nursing care (by either an RN or LVN/LPN). 2. Physician visits at least daily, seven (7) days a week. 3. Programming provided will be consistent with the patient s language, cognitive, speech and/or hearing abilities. 4. Implementation of individualized, problem-focused treatment plan, which includes, but is not limited to: a. Completion of personal substance abuse history with acknowledgement of consequences of use. b. Program has provisions for patient to access psychiatric treatment as needed for a dual diagnosis. c. Initiation or continuation of relapse/recovery program with identification of relapse triggers. d. Supervised attendance at community-based recovery programs when appropriate and available. e. Drug screens as clinically appropriate and at random and a specific intervention plan to address drug use while in treatment. f. Family program and involvement in treatment, as appropriate. 5. Discharge planning is initiated on the day of admission and includes community based recovery programs and appropriate continuing care plans with the preferred outpatient visit within one week of discharge. 6. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress in treatment is being documented, and the patient is still participating, following recommendations and continuing to show a level of motivation consistent with this intensity of treatment being potentially beneficial, but the symptoms and behaviors that required this level of care are still present to the extent that treatment on a lower level of care would not be sufficient. 6

ADULT SUBSTANCE ABUSE SUBACUTE/RTC DETOXIFICATION Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Dependence diagnosis. Must meet either 1 or 2, and also meet 3: 1. Nature and pattern of use of abused substance (including frequency and duration) predicts the potential for clinically significant withdrawal necessitating 24-hour medical intervention to prevent complications and that is not appropriate for a lower level of care- e.g. alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal (note: withdrawal from stimulants or marijuana alone generally does not require a medical detoxification and opiate detoxification is generally appropriate for a lower level of care). 2. Presence of active withdrawal symptoms that cannot be safely or effectively managed at a lower level of care. 3. Must have all of the following to qualify (Presence of these factors would require acute level of care) a. Absence of a complicating psychiatric illness that requires inpatient treatment. b. Absence of a withdrawal history of delirium tremens, seizures, hallucinations or acute psychotic reaction secondary to chronic alcohol use and/or polysubstance drug use. c. Absence of an unstable medical illness that requires care by a consulting physician. 1. Documentation of blood and/or urine drug screen results upon admission. 2. Multi-disciplinary problem-focused treatment plan that addresses psychological, social (including living situation and support system), medical, substance abuse and rehabilitation needs which is re-evaluated and amended in a timely and medically appropriate manner as indicated. 3. Examination by a physician within 24 hours of admission and availability of a physician for consultation on a daily basis while in detoxification. 4. 8 hour skilled nursing (either an RN or LVN/LPN) on site with 24-hour availability. [Note: If the patient s medical symptoms require 24-hour nursing care for assessment, frequent administration of medication, monitoring of vital signs and other services only provided by a nurse, then acute inpatient detoxification is required.] 5. Medication management of withdrawal symptoms. 6. Discharge planning is initiated on the day of admission and includes appropriate continuing care plans. 7. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress in treatment is being documented and the patient is not stable enough to be treated at a lower level of care. 7

ADULT SUBSTANCE ABUSE SUBACUTE/RTC REHABILITATION Residential treatment programs are 24-hour inpatient programs but the intensity of service is much less than an inpatient rehab program. Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Abuse and/or Dependence diagnosis. Must have 1 or 2 and 3-4 to qualify: 1. Psychiatric or medical symptoms and/or dangerous/self-destructive behaviors that could be treated that would likely interfere with the patient maintaining abstinence and recovery outside of a 24 hour structured setting. 2. Patient has attempted treatment at the PHP or IOP level within the past three (3) months and has not been successful at achieving abstinence and recovery for reasons other than not being motivated and not participating or refusing to comply with the program recommendations. 3. Evidence of major functional impairment in at least 2 domains (work/school, ADL, family/interpersonal, physical health). 1. Evaluation by a psychiatrist within 48 hours and weekly visits if dually diagnosed and psychiatric symptoms identified as a reason for admission requiring this level of care. 2. Physical exam and lab tests done within 48 hours if not done prior to admission, and eight (8) hour on-site nursing (by either an RN or LVN/LPN) with 24 hour medical availability to manage medical problems if medical instability identified as a reason for admission requiring this level of care. 3. Programming provided will be consistent with the patient s language, cognitive, speech and/or hearing abilities. 4. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 5. Within 48 hours, an individualized, problem-focused treatment plan is done, based on completion of a detailed personal substance use history, including identification of consequences of use and identifying individual relapse triggers as goals. 6. The treatment would include the following at least once per day, and each lasting 60-90 minutes: community/milieu group therapy, group psychotherapy and activity group therapy. 7. Family supports identified and contacted within 48 hours and family/primary support person participation in treatment at least weekly unless contraindicated. 8. Discharge planning initiated within one (1) week of admission including identification of community/family resources, sober supports, connection or re-establishment of connection to community based recovery programs and professional aftercare treatment. 9. Drug screens used after any off-grounds activities or whenever indicated. 10. All therapeutic services provided by licensed or certified professionals in accordance with state laws. 1. Either progress toward all goals in the treatment plan is being documented in treatment plan reviews no less than once a week, or if progress is not being achieved, then the treatment plan is being revised and treatment goals are still achievable 2. The patient is still participating, following recommendations and continuing to show a level of motivation consistent with the intensity of treatment being potentially beneficial 8

ADULT SUBSTANCE ABUSE PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION REHABILITATION PROGRAM (PHP) Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Abuse and/or Dependence diagnosis. Co-morbid psychiatric conditions frequently occur and should be assessed upon admission. 1. Symptoms or behaviors that could be treated must be present that would likely progress to a level of dangerousness or failure of self care that would require inpatient treatment without a structured treatment setting of at least six (6) hours duration a day 2. Significant functional impairment as evidenced by inability to work or attend school, impaired self care and significant conflicts with the support environment. 3. The patient does not also meet criteria for IOP. 4. The patient has demonstrated a level of motivation that is consistent with PHP level treatment being of potential benefit; if the primary purpose of PHP is for motivational enhancement, then there must be evidence of psychiatric or medical risks that are too high for treatment at a lower level of care. 5. The patient s social environment is not sufficient for treatment at a lower level of care but adequate for PHP, and PHP is necessary to further stabilize the social environment. Must have all the following to qualify: 1. The service is provided for 6-8 hours a day (or 4 to 8 if permitted by contract), at least four (4) days a week. 2. Nursing and MD treatment is documented if needed as evidenced by acute medical or psychiatric interventions being listed on the treatment plan. 3. Programming provided is consistent with the patient s language, cognitive, speech and/or hearing abilities. 4. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 5. An individualized treatment plan is implemented with anticipated dates of completion that are tied to the patient s needs, not a fixed program schedule, and includes: a. Completion of a personal substance abuse history with acknowledgement of consequences of use. b. Initiation or continuation of relapse/recovery program with identification of relapse triggers. c. Goal of attendance at community-based recovery programs-to be attended at least two (2) times per week or documented rationale as to why this should not be required. d. Drug screens are obtained on a random basis with evidence of an adjustment to the treatment plan if results are positive. e. Family involvement in treatment as appropriate. 6. If a behavioral health diagnosis is present requiring active treatment or the facility is providing dual diagnosis services, psychiatrist visits are documented as necessary. 7. All therapeutic services are provided by licensed or certified professionals in accordance with state requirements. 1. Progress toward treatment goals is being documented, as shown by continued participation, abstinence, and adherence to treatment recommendations, and if no progress noted or relapse occurs, the treatment plan is re-evaluated and amended such that progress will be likely. 9

ADULT SUBSTANCE ABUSE INTENSIVE STRUCTURED OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION PROGRAM (IOP) Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Abuse and/or Dependence diagnosis. Co-morbid psychiatric conditions frequently occur and should be assessed upon admission. IOP level of care may be appropriate for the first attempt at rehabilitation. The structure and educational benefits of this level of care compared to individual outpatient may lead to better outcomes for certain patients. Must meet all of the following to qualify: 1. The pattern of substance use and behavior is unlikely to change with outpatient treatment and community resources alone. However, the patient is able to live safely in the community with adequate functioning. 2. There is evidence that the patient is motivated, as evidenced by an expression of an interest or desire to work towards the goals of treatment and recovery at the time of admission or shortly thereafter. 3. The patient s social system and significant others are supportive of recovery, and the patient demonstrates the motivation, social and cognitive skills to develop a sober support system. 1. Meets a minimum of three (3) days per week at least three (3) hours per day; the frequency may be decreased as clinically indicated. 2. Programming provided will be consistent with the patient s language, cognitive, speech and/or hearing abilities. 3. Implementation of individualized, problem-focused treatment plan which includes, but is not limited to: a. Completion of personal substance abuse history with acknowledgment of consequences of use. b. Initiation or continuation of relapse/recovery program with identification of relapse triggers. c. Attendance at community-based recovery programs - to be attended at least three (3) times per week. d. Drug screens as clinically appropriate and at random and an intervention plan to address drug use while in treatment. e. Family program and involvement in treatment as appropriate. f. The program has provisions for patient to access psychiatric treatment for a dual diagnosis, as needed. 4. Discharge planning is initiated on the day of admission and includes appropriate continuing care plans. 5. All therapeutic services are provided by licensed or certified professionals in accordance with state requirements. 6. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress toward treatment goals is being documented, as shown by continued participation, abstinence, and adherence to treatment recommendations, and if no progress noted or relapse occurs, the treatment plan is re-evaluated and amended such that progress will be likely. 10

ADULT SUBSTANCE ABUSE OUTPATIENT TREATMENT Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM or ICD-9 Axis I Substance Abuse and/or Dependence diagnosis. 1. Substance use is excessive, maladaptive and some symptoms have persisted for at least one (1) month or have occurred as part of a repeated pattern over a longer period of time. 2. There is evidence that the patient is motivated as evidenced by expression of an interest or desire to work towards the goals of treatment recovery or can be motivated. 3. Patient s social system and significant others are supportive of recovery, or patient demonstrates the social and cognitive skills to develop a sober support system. 4. Patient does not meet the criteria for a higher level of care. 1. Frequency a. Initial: Up to a maximum of six (6) therapy sessions within the first three (3) week period. b. Ongoing: Short term problem focused therapy in conjunction with community based programs and frequency of visits should be decreased over time to generally less than one time per week. 2. Documentation of complete drug and alcohol assessment. 3. Assessment of family and social support system. 4. Individual treatment plan which includes: a. Identification of recovery goals. b. Issues such as mental preoccupation with alcohol or drug use, cravings, peer pressure, lifestyle, consequences of use, and attitudinal changes are addressed. c. Development of a relapse prevention plan and sober support system. d. Monitoring attendance at community-based recovery programs. e. Utilization of educational materials (books, videos). f. Drug screens as clinically appropriate (may require coordination with a physician). g. Development of a discharge/aftercare plan. h. Referred to psychiatric services for a dual diagnosis, as needed. 5. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress toward treatment goals is being documented, as shown by continued participation, abstinence, and adherence to treatment recommendations, and if no progress noted or relapse occurs, the treatment plan is re-evaluated and amended such that progress will be likely. 11

ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE INPATIENT ACUTE DETOXIFICATION Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Dependence diagnosis. Must have one (1) of the following to qualify: 1. Nature and pattern of use of abused substance (including frequency and duration) predicts the potential for clinically significant withdrawal necessitating 24-hour medical intervention to prevent complications and that is not appropriate for a lower level of care- e.g. alcohol and hypnotic or sedative withdrawal (note: withdrawal from stimulants or marijuana alone generally does not require a medical detoxification and opiate detoxification is generally appropriate for a lower level of care). 2. Presence of active withdrawal symptoms that can not be safely or effectively managed at a lower level of care-e.g. withdrawal hallucinations, confusion or disorientation or seizures. Note: Patients who experience severe psychological withdrawal symptoms may require 24-hour care, even though they do not meet the detoxification criteria. Please refer to rehabilitation and psychiatric criteria. Must have all of the following to qualify and must still meet one1 SI Criteria: 1. Documentation of blood and/or urine drug screen results upon admission. 2. Multi-disciplinary problem-focused treatment plan which addresses psychological, social, medical, substance abuse and aftercare needs, which is amended in a timely and appropriate manner as indicated. 3. Physician visits at least seven (7) times a week. 4. 24-hour skilled nursing (by either an RN or LVN/LPN). 5. Medication management of withdrawal symptoms. 6. Discharge planning is initiated on the day of admission and includes appropriate continuing care plans with the preferred outpatient visit within one week of discharge. 7. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress in treatment is being documented and the patient is not stable enough to be treated at a lower level of care. 12

ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE INPATIENT ACUTE REHABILITATION Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I Substance Abuse or ICD-9 and/or Dependence diagnosis. 1. Patient no longer meets detoxification SI criteria. 2. Patient demonstrates behavior or medical symptomatology such that a lower level of care is likely to fail or has recently failed. This may be because the patient has a severe co-morbid medical, psychiatric disorder or risk taking behaviors, which prohibits them from being safely treated at an RTC or outpatient level of care. 3. There is evidence of major life impairments in at least two (2) areas of functioning (school/work, family, ADL s, interpersonal). 4. The patient has expressed an interest or desire to work towards the goals of treatment and recovery, at the time of admission or shortly thereafter. 1. 24-hour skilled nursing (by either an RN or LVN/LPN). 2. Physician visits at least daily, seven (7) days a week. 3. Programming provided will be consistent with the patient s language, cognitive, speech and/or hearing abilities. 4. Implementation of individualized, problem-focused treatment plan, which includes but is not limited to: a. Completion of personal substance abuse history with acknowledgment of consequences of use. b. Initiation or continuation of relapse/recovery program with identification of relapse triggers. c. Supervised attendance at community-based recovery programs when appropriate and available. d. Drug screens as clinically appropriate and at random and a specific intervention plan to address drug use while in treatment. e. Family program and involvement in treatment including weekly individual family therapy, unless clinically contraindicated. f. The program has provisions for patient to access psychiatric treatment as needed for a dual diagnosis. 5. Discharge planning is initiated on the day of admission and includes community based recovery programs and appropriate continuing care plans with the preferred outpatient visit within one week of discharge. 6. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress in treatment is being documented, and the patient is still participating, following recommendations and continuing to show a level of motivation consistent with this intensity of treatment being potentially beneficial, but the symptoms and behaviors that required this level of care are still present to the extent that treatment on a lower level of care would not be sufficient. 13

ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE SUBACUTE/RTC DETOXIFICATION Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Dependence diagnosis. Must meet either 1 or 2, and also meet 3 : 1. Nature and pattern of use of abused substance (including frequency and duration) predicts the potential for clinically significant withdrawal necessitating 24-hour medical intervention to prevent complications and that is not appropriate for a lower level of care- e.g. alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal (note: withdrawal from stimulants or marijuana alone generally does not require a medical detoxification and opiate detoxification is generally appropriate for a lower level of care). 2. Presence of active withdrawal symptoms that can not be safely or effectively managed at a lower level of care. 3. Must have all of the following to qualify (the presence of these factors would require an acute hospital level of care): a. Absence of a complicating psychiatric illness that requires inpatient treatment. b. Absence of a previous withdrawal history of delirium tremens, seizures, hallucinations or acute psychotic reaction secondary to chronic alcohol use and/or polysubstance drug use. c. Absence of an unstable medical illness that requires care by a consulting physician. 1. Documentation of blood and/or urine drug screen results upon admission. 2. Multi-disciplinary problem-focused treatment plan that addresses psychological, social (including living situation and support system), medical, substance abuse and rehabilitation needs which is re-evaluated and amended in a timely and medically appropriate manner as indicated. 3. Examination by a physician within 24 hours of admission and availability of a physician for consultation on a daily basis while in detoxification. 4. 8 hour skilled nursing (either an RN or LVN/LPN) on site with 24-hour availability. (Note: If the patient s medical symptoms require 24-hour nursing care for assessment, frequent administration of medication, monitoring of vital signs and other services only provided by a nurse, then acute inpatient detoxification is required.) 5. Medication management of withdrawal symptoms. 6. Discharge planning is initiated on the day of admission and includes appropriate continuing care plans. 7. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress in treatment is being documented and the patient is not stable enough to be treated at a lower level of care. 14

ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE SUBACUTE/RTC REHABILITATION Residential treatment programs are 24-hour inpatient programs but the intensity of service is much less than an acute inpatient rehab program. Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Abuse and/or Dependence diagnosis. Must have 1 or 2 and 3-4 to qualify: 1. Psychiatric or medical symptoms and/or dangerous/self-destructive behaviors that could be treated that would likely interfere with the patient maintaining abstinence and recovery outside of a 24 hour structured setting. 2. Patient has attempted treatment at the PHP or IOP level within the past 3 months and has not been successful at achieving abstinence and recovery for reasons other than not being motivated and not participating or refusing to comply with the program recommendations. 3. Evidence of major functional impairment in at least two domains (work/school, ADL, family/interpersonal, physical health). NOTE: It is expected that a family assessment will be conducted as part of the pre-auth/intake process prior to admission to this non-emergent level of care. 1. Evaluation by a psychiatrist within 48 hours and weekly visits if dually diagnosed and psychiatric symptoms identified as a reason for admission requiring this level of care. 2. Physical exam and lab tests done within 48 hours if not done prior to admission, and eight (8) hour on-site nursing (by either an RN or LVN/LPN) with 24 hour medical availability to manage medical problems if medical instability identified as a reason for admission requiring this level of care. 3. Programming provided will be consistent with the patient s language, cognitive, speech and/or hearing abilities. 4. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 5. Within 48 hours, an individualized, problem-focused treatment plan is done, based on completion of a detailed personnel substance use history, including identification of consequences of use and identifying individual relapse triggers as goals. 6. The treatment would include the following at least once per day, and each lasting 60-90 minutes: community/milieu group therapy, group psychotherapy and activity group therapy. 7. Family supports identified and contacted within 48 hours and family/primary support person participation in treatment at least weekly unless contraindicated. 8. Discharge planning initiated within one (1) week of admission including identification of community/family resources, sober supports, connection or re-establishment of connection to community based recovery programs and professional aftercare treatment. 9. Drug screens used after any off-grounds activities or whenever indicated. 10. All therapeutic services provided by licensed or certified professionals in accordance with state laws. 1. Either progress toward all goals in the treatment plan is being documented in treatment plan reviews no less than once a week, or if progress is not being achieved, then the treatment plan is being revised and treatment goals are still achievable. 2. The patient is still participating, following recommendations and continuing to show a level of motivation consistent with the intensity of treatment being potentially beneficial. ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE 15

PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION REHABILITATION PROGRAM (PHP) Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Abuse and/or Dependence diagnosis. 1. Symptoms or behaviors that could be treated must be present that would likely progress to a level of dangerousness or failure of self care that would require Inpatient treatment without a structured treatment setting of at least six (6) hours duration a day. 2. Significant functional impairment as evidenced by inability to work or attend school, impaired self care and significant conflicts with the support environment. 3. The patient does not also meet criteria for IOP. 4. The patient has demonstrated a level of motivation that is consistent with PHP level treatment being of potential benefit; if the primary purpose of PHP is for motivational enhancement, then there must be evidence of psychiatric or medical risks that are too high for treatment at a lower level of care. 5. The patient s social environment is not sufficient for treatment at a lower level of care but adequate for PHP, and PHP is necessary to further stabilize the social environment. Must have all the following to qualify: 1. The service is provided for 6-8 hours a day (or 4 to 8 if permitted by contract), at least 4 days a week. 2. Nursing and MD treatment is documented if needed as evidenced by acute medical or psychiatric interventions being listed on the treatment plan. 3. Programming provided is consistent with the patient s language, cognitive speech and/or hearing abilities. 4. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 5. Implementation of individualized, problem-focused treatment plan including but not limited to: a. Completion of a personal substance abuse history with acknowledgement of consequences of use. b. Initiation of continuation of relapse/recovery program with identification of relapse triggers. c. A goal of attendance at community-based recovery programs - to be attended at least two (2) times per week, or documented rationale as to why this should not be required. d. Drug screens are obtained on a random basis with evidence of an adjustment to the treatment plan if results are positive. e. Family involvement in treatment including weekly individual family therapy sessions, unless clinically contraindicated. 6. If a behavioral health diagnosis is present requiring active treatment or the facility is providing dual diagnosis services, psychiatrist visits are documented as necessary. 7. All therapeutic services are provided by licensed or certified professionals in accordance with state requirements. 1. Progress toward treatment goals is being documented, as shown by continued participation, abstinence, and adherence to treatment recommendations, and if no progress noted or relapse occurs, the treatment plan is re-evaluated and amended such that progress will be likely. 16

ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE INTENSIVE STRUCTURED OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION PROGRAM (IOP) Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DSM Axis I or ICD 9 Substance Abuse and/or Dependence diagnosis. Comorbid psychiatric conditions frequently occur and should be assessed upon admission. IOP level of care may be appropriate for the first attempt at rehabilitation. The structure and educational benefits of this level of care compared to individual outpatient may lead to better outcomes for certain patients. Must meet all of the following to qualify: 1. The pattern of substance use and behavior is unlikely to change with outpatient treatment and community resources alone. However, the patient is able to live safely in the community with adequate functioning. 2. There is evidence that the patient is motivated, as evidenced by an expression of an interest or desire to work towards the goals of treatment and recovery at the time of admission or shortly thereafter. 3. Patient s social system and significant others are supportive of recovery, and the patient demonstrates the motivation, social and cognitive skills to develop a sober support system. 1. Meets a minimum of three (3) days per week and at least three (3) hours per day; the frequency may be decreased as clinically appropriate. 2. Programming provided will be consistent with the patient s language, cognitive, speech and/or hearing abilities. 3. Implementation of individualized, problem-focused treatment plan which includes, but is not limited to: a. Completion of personal substance abuse history with acknowledgment of consequences of use. b. Initiation or continuation of relapse/recovery program with identification of relapse triggers. c. Attendance at community-based recovery programs - to be attended at least three (3) times per week. d. Drug screens as clinically appropriate and at random and an intervention plan to address drug use while in treatment. e. Family program and involvement in treatment individual family sessions one time each week, unless clinically contraindicated. f. The program has provisions for patients to access psychiatric treatment as needed for a dual diagnosis, as needed. 4. Discharge planning is initiated on the day of admission and includes appropriate continuing care plans. 5. All therapeutic services are provided by licensed or certified professionals in accordance with state requirements. 6. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress toward treatment goals is being documented, as shown by continued participation, abstinence, and adherence to treatment recommendations, and if no progress noted or relapse occurs, the treatment plan is re-evaluated and amended such that progress will be likely. 17

ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE OUTPATIENT TREATMENT Clinical Findings: To qualify, patient must meet the diagnostic criteria for a DMS Axis I or ICD-9 Substance Abuse and/or Dependence diagnosis. 1. Substance use is maladaptive and some symptoms have persisted for at least one (1) month or have occurred as part of a repeated pattern over a longer period of time. 2. There is evidence that the patient is motivated, or can be motivated, as evidenced by expression of an interest or desire to work towards the goals of treatment recovery. 3. Patient s social system and significant others are supportive of recovery, or patient demonstrates the social and cognitive skills to develop a sober support system. 4. Patient does not meet the criteria for a higher level of care. 1. Frequency a. Initial: Up to a maximum of six (6) therapy sessions within the first three (3) week period in addition to one (1) family session per week. b. Ongoing: Short term problem focused therapy in conjunction with community based programs and frequency of visits should be decreased over time to generally less than one time per week. 2. Documentation of complete drug and alcohol assessment. 3. Family system assessment and involvement. 4. Individual treatment plan which includes: a. Identification of recovery goals. b. Issues such as mental preoccupation with alcohol or drug use, cravings, peer pressure, lifestyle, consequences of use and attitudinal changes are addressed. c. Development of relapse prevention plan and sober support system. d. Monitoring attendance at community-based recovery programs. e. Utilization of educational materials (books, videos). f. Drug screens as clinically appropriate (may require coordination with a physician). g. Development of a discharge/aftercare plan. h. Referred to psychiatric services for a dual diagnosis, as needed. 5. Coordination of care with other clinicians, such as the outpatient psychiatrist, therapist, and the patient s PCP, providing 1. Progress toward treatment goals is being documented, as shown by continued participation, abstinence, and adherence to treatment recommendations, and if no progress noted or relapse occurs, the treatment plan is re-evaluated and amended such that progress will be likely. 18